Pokemon Scarlet & Violet version exclusives and differences explained

Brent Koepp

Each Pokemon generation comes with two different versions, both of which have their own exclusive content. If you’re finding it difficult to choose between Scarlet & Violet, we’ve compiled all the version exclusives differences between the games to help you decide.

Ever since the Pokemon series launched with Red & Blue in 1996, Game Freak has offered players two versions to choose between. Although this was dropped with Legends Arceus, the multi-release is making its return with Generation 9.

With Pokemon Scarlet & Violet receiving a fair few trailers so far, we’re going to break down every difference Pokemon we know of right now so you can figure out which game is right for you.

Alternatively, be sure to check out the games’ starter Pokemon, the version differences, and where to preorder (and buy) Gen 9 so you’re prepared to catch ’em all. 


Contents


Version exclusive academies in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet
There are plenty of version exclusives in Scarlet and Violet.

Pokemon Scarlet & Violet version exclusives list

Scarlet-exclusive Pokemon

  • Larvitar, Pupitar & Tyranitar
  • Stonjourner
  • Armarouge
  • Koraidon

Violet-exclusive Pokemon

  • Bagon, Shelgon & Salamence
  • Eiscue
  • Ceruledge
  • Miraidon

Armarouge and Ceruledge are the latest version-exclusive Pokemon to be revealed. Armarouge is a Fire/Psychic-type while Ceruledge is a Fire/Ghost-type. They both resemble powerful warriors.

These are the only version-exclusive Pokemon we know about so far, but more will be confirmed as we get closer to the Scarlet & Violet’s release, so make sure you check back here for updates.

Just like in previous Pokemon games, you’ll need to trade with other players if you want to get all of these version exclusives – unless a new feature is released that switches things up.

Version exclusive Legendaries in Pokemon Scarlet & Violet

Koraidon and Miraidon Legendaries in Pokemon
Koraidon is Scarlet exclusive while Miraidon is Violet exclusive.

Pokemon Scarlet players will be able to catch the prehistoric Legendary creature Koraidon, while Pokemon Violet players will be able to catch the futuristic Legendary creature Miraidon.

We don’t know much about their differences, as their elemental typings and abilities are being kept secret for now, but we do know that trainers will be able to ride them around the Paldea region.

Version professor differences in Pokemon Scarlet & Violet

Version exclusive professors in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet
Each version has its own professor.

For the first time ever, a Pokemon game will feature different professors in each version. Scarlet will get Professor Sada, who wears past attire, while Violet will get Professor Turo, who wears future attire.

Pokemon Scarlet & Violet main character differences

While the Pokemon Scarlet & Violet protagonists will use the same character models, their default school uniforms are different — with Scarlet’s being orange and Violet’s being purple.

Pokemon Scarlet & Violet protagonist differences screenshot wallpaper.
Pokemon Scarlet has a different protagonist uniform compared to Violet.

The reveal trailer also showed two shields on the wall that had an orange and grape logo on them. These icons can be seen on the protagonist’s uniforms, which are unique symbols for each version of the game.

Pokemon Scarlet & Violet reveal trailer orange & grape shields screenshot.
Pokemon Scarlet appears to have an orange symbol while Pokemon Violet has a grape.

Interestingly, the first footage of Pokemon Scarlet & Violet actually showed characters with both uniforms in the background. So while it does appear that each version of the game will have its own protagonist outfit or faction, it seems as though both groups will be in both games.

We’ll keep this page updated as more version exclusives and differences are confirmed, but for now, check out some of our other Pokemon Scarlet & Violet guides below:

Sign up to Dexerto for free and receive:
Fewer Ads|Dark Mode|Deals in Gaming, TV and Movies, and Tech